The young North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been MIA since September 3 when he attended a concert in Pyongyang of his favourite group, the Moranbong Band, an all-girl band consisting of five musicians, all hand-picked by Kim.

Since then he's been incommunicado - that is...

There are plenty of theories as to why, but no so far answers. And speculation is rife.

This Friday will be crucial as North Korea is set to celebrate the 69th anniversary of the ruling party. If Kim Jong-un doesn't make an appearance, the rumours will definitely pick up pace.

1. He is ill - possibly because of cheese

Some claim he has been suffering from poor health.

In recent years, Kim has gained a lot of weight, something apparently attributable to his debilitating addiction to Emmental cheese. The South Korean press recently reported that he was hospitalized suffering from gout.

2. He can't walk

Another paper reported that he underwent surgery on both ankles to address an injury sustained during field supervisions in June.